General Description

Body almost circular, compressed, belly inflatable. Two dorsal fins, the first with two spines, first spine relatively short, slender with smooth edges, second spine very small; skin velvety. Colour pattern highly variable, usually greenish to brownish, with spots, lines and small ocelli (false eye-spots). Usually 4 cm long to tail tip (up to 9 cm long).

Biology

The is the smallest leatherjacket species in southern Australia. It occurs in a range of habitats, with large adults often found on rocky reefs. Unusually for a leatherjacket, this species inflates its belly for protection, and during territorial disputes between males. When 'sleeping', the Pygmy Leatherjacket anchors itself by biting onto a piece of seaweed.

Distribution

Southern Australia.

Habitat

Coastal reefs, as well as piers, jetties and seagrass beds within estuaries.

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